Paul Ritchie staying .... despite rumours

By Andy Leggott
March 22 2002

Rumours that Paul Ritchie was about to leave Maine Road for Bolton are wide of the mark. Sam Allardyce is reported to have inquired as to the availability of Paul Ritchie but was told in no uncertain terms that the player was not available.

Allardyce had hoped to lure Ritchie back to the Reebok, he spent a successful loan spell there in the 99/00 season, to strengthen Bolton's defence in their fight against relegation. Keegan does not want to let anyone go at the moment, especially with all the recent niggling injuries in the squad.